Cab and Chassis Truck Buying Guide | AZ, CA, OR, WA, and AK

If you rely on your cab and chassis truck to keep your business operations rolling, you’ll want to select the perfect rig for your enterprise the first time. Unlike a standard pickup truck, a cab and chassis truck is a blank slate that can be customized to meet specific requirements. Whether you’re outfitting it with a flatbed, service body, box truck, or other specialized equipment, our useful guide can help you make the best choice for your work projects!

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a cab and chassis truck is identifying its intended use. Ask yourself what tasks you hope the rig can perform—hauling light-duty cargo or carrying heavy equipment. Understanding your needs will help you choose the right truck configuration, engine power, and weight rating.

For example, if you plan to install a dump body for construction work, you’ll need a truck with a higher gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and sufficient engine power to handle heavy loads. On the other hand, if you’re using the truck for deliveries, a smaller engine with better fuel efficiency may be more suitable.

Engine and Transmission

Diesel vs. Gasoline Engines: Diesel engines are often preferred for their superior torque, fuel efficiency, and durability, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Gasoline engines, however, may be more cost-effective for lighter loads or shorter trips.

Automatic vs. Manual Transmission: Automatic transmissions are common and offer ease of use, especially in urban driving. Although less common, manual transmissions provide greater control over the truck's performance and may be preferred by some drivers for heavy-duty applications.

Cab Configuration

The cab configuration of a truck affects both its functionality and comfort. Consider the following options:

Regular Cab: These feature a single row of seats and the maximum cargo space is behind the cab. These are ideal work trucks where carrying passengers is not a priority.

Extended Cab: They provide extra seating or storage space behind the front seats, creating space for your cargo and passengers.

Crew Cab: They offer four full-size doors and a spacious interior with seats for up to six passengers. These are best for transporting work crews along with tools or equipment.

Chassis Length and Wheelbase

The chassis length and wheelbase of a cab and chassis truck affect its stability, maneuverability, and the types of bodies or equipment it can accommodate. A longer wheelbase provides greater stability, especially for hauling heavy payloads, but can reduce maneuverability in tight spaces.

Are you ready to go shopping for cab and chassis trucks? Visit RWC Group at one of our locations in Arizona, Alaska, California, Oregon, or Washington to explore our fine selection of premium rigs. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff looks forward to serving you!